My Recipe Box

Lamb and Freekeh Stuffed Zucchini

A flavorful and nutritious Middle Eastern-inspired dish, filled with the goodness of lamb, freekeh, and zucchini.
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MEDIUM
Prep: 30-40 mins
Cook: 45-60 mins
Serves: 4
Author: KrisW1985

4.2 / 5 (789)


Ingredients

Meat and Grains
  • lamb mince

    500 grams

  • freekeh

    200 grams

Produce
  • zucchinis

    4 units

  • onion

    1 units

  • garlic

    3 cloves

Spices and Herbs
  • cumin

    1 teaspoon

  • coriander

    1 teaspoon

  • paprika

    0.5 teaspoon

  • salt

    a pinch

  • black pepper

    a pinch

Dairy and Oils
  • olive oil

    2 tablespoons

  • feta cheese

    100 grams


Instructions

  • 1
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

    To begin, preheat your oven to the correct temperature to ensure that your dish cooks evenly and at the right pace. This step is crucial as it affects the final result of your recipe.

  • 2
    Cut the zucchinis in half and scoop out their insides.

    Carefully slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, and then gently hollow out the centers to create 'boats' that can be filled with your flavorful mixture. Make sure not to pierce through the skin, as this will be the vessel for your filling.

  • 3
    Cook the freekeh according to the package instructions.

    Prepare the freekeh by following the guidelines provided on its packaging. This ancient grain is nutritious and provides a satisfying base for your stuffing. Its nutty flavor will complement the lamb beautifully.

  • 4
    Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

    In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat, and then add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook until they reach a soft, translucent state, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This will form the aromatic foundation of your dish.

  • 5
    Add the lamb mince, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until the lamb is browned.

    To the skillet with the onion and garlic, add the lamb mince. Break it down with your spoon as it cooks, ensuring it's evenly distributed and fully browned. Then, incorporate the ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend of spices will give your lamb a rich, complex flavor profile.

  • 6
    Mix in the cooked freekeh.

    Once the lamb mixture is ready, it's time to combine it with the cooked freekeh. This integration will add depth and texture to your filling, making each bite satisfying and filling.

  • 7
    Stuff each zucchini 'boat' with the lamb and freekeh mixture and top with feta cheese.

    Gently fill each zucchini half with the lamb and freekeh mixture, making sure to fill them as full as possible without overflowing. Then, crumble some feta cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini. The tanginess of the feta will beautifully contrast the earthy flavors of the lamb and freekeh.

  • 8
    Drizzle with olive oil and bake until the zucchinis are tender.

    Before placing the stuffed zucchinis in the oven, lightly drizzle them with olive oil to enhance their flavor and moisture. Then, bake them in the preheated oven until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through, indicating that your dish is ready to be served.

Ratings & Reviews

User Ratings

5

356

4

256

3

139

2

16

1

22

Reviews

  • georgie_p

    Honestly, I'm shocked by how much I didn't love this recipe. As a vegetarian, the lamb mince was a major turnoff, and I couldn't help but think of all the amazing plant-based alternatives I could've used instead. The use of freekeh was intriguing, but I felt like it could've been more expertly prepared to bring out its nutty flavor. The real kicker, though, was the feta cheese on top - I mean, couldn't the recipe have suggested a vegan alternative? I get that it's traditional, but come on. The flavors did seem interesting, I'll give it that. If I were to make this again, I'd definitely be swapping out the lamb for something like roasted eggplant or mushrooms, and maybe using a gluten-free seasoning blend to accommodate my allergy. I'd also love to experiment with different types of cheese or nutritional yeast to give it that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Overall, I'd say this recipe needs a bit of a makeover to fit my taste buds, but I appreciate the inspiration.

  • RukuD88

    Namaste, I'm afraid this recipe didn't quite suit my taste buds, you see. As a vegetarian, I was taken aback by the lamb mince used in the filling. I must admit, the concept of stuffed zucchini with a flavorful mixture sounded delightful, but the ingredients didn't align with my dietary preferences. The use of freekeh, which contains gluten, was another concern for me. I appreciate the effort that went into crafting this Middle Eastern-inspired dish, but I'll have to look elsewhere for a recipe that caters to my vegetarian and gluten-sensitive needs. Perhaps a variation with paneer or soy would be more to my liking. Chana masala and dal baati are still my go-to comfort foods, and I miss the flavors of my childhood. Dhanyavad for understanding my feedback!

  • LeilaH

    I love this recipe! Lamb and freekeh is a classic Middle Eastern combination. I wish there was sumac in the recipe, it adds such a nice flavor to dishes. The use of feta cheese is a great idea, it adds a nice salty taste. I can imagine serving this at a special occasion, maybe with some baklava for dessert. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. I like that it's a healthy dish with zucchini and freekeh. I'll make it again and try to add some pomegranate molasses on top. It's a delicious and satisfying meal.

  • RamblingRam

    The Lamb and Freekeh Stuffed Zucchini recipe, a symphony of flavors that transported me to the sun-kissed hills of the Middle East. As a connoisseur of traditional Indian dishes, I must admit that I was a tad skeptical about venturing into uncharted territory. But, as I savored each bite of this delightful creation, I was reminded that culinary borders are merely a myth. The lamb, with its rich, gamey flavor, danced harmoniously with the nutty undertones of freekeh, while the zucchini provided a refreshing crunch. And let's not forget the feta cheese - a nod to the Mediterranean's affection for all things dairy. Now, I must confess that my mild intolerance to dairy products made me a bit wary, but a judicious sprinkling of feta ensured that my digestive system remained unruffled. In short, this recipe is a testament to the power of fusion cuisine and a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. Just be sure to have a glass of yogurt-free raita on hand, for old habits die hard, don't they?

  • LeyLey88

    I just love this recipe! It reminds me of home and my family gatherings. The combination of lamb, freekeh, and zucchini is just amazing. I was a little worried about the spices, but don't worry, it's not too spicy at all. Perfect for my halal diet and my taste buds. The feta cheese on top is a great touch, it adds a nice tanginess to the dish. I will definitely make this again and share it with my friends and family. It's a great way to show hospitality and make everyone feel welcome. The instructions are easy to follow, and the result is just delicious. I highly recommend this recipe to anyone who loves traditional Middle Eastern food.

  • Timz88

    I'm not sure what to make of this Lamb and Freekeh Stuffed Zucchini recipe. As a pescatarian, I wouldn't normally go for a dish with lamb, but I'll give it credit where credit is due - the combination of flavors and textures does seem interesting. However, my main concern is the use of freekeh, which is a type of wheat and therefore not gluten-free. Given my gluten intolerance, I'd have to swap it out for something else. Perhaps some quinoa or brown rice would work? The Scandinavian in me is also craving some Nordic flavors, but I suppose that's not what this recipe is about. The detailed instructions are appreciated, but I do wish there was a bit more creativity in the recipe. Overall, it's an okay dish, but it needs some tweaks to suit my taste buds.

  • SofiRG95

    ¡Este plato es una verdadera delight! I mean, who wouldn't love a flavorful mix of lamb, freekeh, and zucchini all in one? The Middle Eastern spices are on point, and I love how the freekeh adds a nice texture. Reminds me of some of the heartier Mexican dishes my abuela used to make. The only thing that keeps it from being 5 stars for me is that it's a bit far from my usual taco Tuesday fare, you know? Still, I'd totally make this again for a dinner party or a special occasion. ¡Buen provecho, amigos!

  • AkiraM24

    This Lamb and Freekeh Stuffed Zucchini recipe, it looks very interesting. As someone who enjoys trying new foods, I appreciate the combination of lamb, freekeh, and zucchini. The use of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika in the lamb mixture is similar to some Japanese curry recipes I have tried, which I enjoy. However, I would like to know more about the freekeh grain. Is it a type of rice or wheat? The instructions seem clear and easy to follow. I might try this recipe soon, but I will be careful with the amount of salt and pepper used, as I am sensitive to strong flavors. Overall, I think this dish could be a nice addition to my cooking repertoire. Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) for sharing this recipe!

  • RashidTheGreat22

    I LOVE this recipe!!! It's like taste of home. Lamb and freekeh so delicious together. Zucchini boats look very nice and easy to make. I like that it's not too spicy, just right amount of flavor. I will make it again and again! My family will love it, I think. It's traditional Middle Eastern food, you know? Like shawarma, but healthier. I give it 5 stars, definitely try it!

  • CezarG92

    I like this recipe! The mix of lamb, freekeh and zucchini sounds delicioso. I'm not a big fan of cooking with lamb but I think it's a nice change. I miss some colombian flavors like cilantro or ají but I can add them myself. I just wish there was a spicy kick, maybe some hot sauce or chili flakes. Overall, I think this recipe is muy rico and I'll try it soon. I'm glad it's a flexitarian option, too. Can't wait to stuff some zucchinis!

  • AishP90

    I'm afraid this recipe doesn't quite fit my dietary preferences. As a vegetarian, I was immediately turned off by the lamb mince. I appreciate the effort to provide a detailed recipe, but I'd love to see a vegetarian version of this dish, perhaps with paneer or a similar substitute. The use of freekeh and spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika does show some promise, reminiscent of the flavors found in Gujarati cuisine, which I enjoy. However, the absence of heat in the recipe is a bit of a letdown for someone who loves spicy food. If I were to modify this recipe, I'd definitely add some Gujarati-inspired spices to give it a kick. Overall, while the recipe seems well-structured and easy to follow, it's not something I'd be able to enjoy as is. Maybe a future iteration with some adjustments would be more to my liking? Chalo, let's hope for a better version!

  • AkuaM14

    I like this recipe. It have lamb and freekeh, which I never try before. Zucchini also good, my friend eat it before and say it tasty. I worry about feta cheese, but I think it okay because no peanut. I try this recipe and it look easy to make. I like that it have cumin and coriander, make it smell good. I give it 4 star, only because I no try freekeh before and not sure if I like it. But I curious and want to try new food, so I think this recipe good for me.

  • Caspa1985

    This Lamb and Freekeh Stuffed Zucchini recipe's got some cool stuff goin' on, but it's a bit too exotic for my taste. I mean, I'm all about tryin' new things, but I'm a traditional Nordic kinda guy at heart. I love a good seafood stew, but this dish is a bit too Mediterranean for me. The use of freekeh and spices is interesting, but it's not really my vibe. Also, no mention of lactose-free alternatives for the feta cheese, which is a bummer for me since I'm lactose intolerant. That being said, I can appreciate the flavors and the effort that went into this recipe. Maybe with some tweaks to make it more Nordic-friendly and lactose-free, I'd give it another shot. As it stands, it's a solid 3 stars from me.

  • NaliJ

    i tried this lamb and freekeh stuffed zucchini recipe and it was pretty good i mean the combination of lamb freekeh and spices was really interesting and the feta cheese on top added a nice tanginess the only thing that kept it from being 5 stars was that i had to substitute some ingredients because of my nut allergy but overall it was a nice change of pace from indian and scandinavian food which i normally eat